Emerging Type of Heartburn Defies Drugs, Diagnosis

Nearly half of the U.S. population has symptoms of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) at least once a month, and 20% have them weekly. But many of them don''t have telltale damage to their esophagus. Melinda Beck explains on Lunch Break. Photo: Getty Images.

By

Melinda Beck

Nov. 12, 2012 7:17 pm ET

New research suggests that in many people, heartburn may be caused by something other than acid reflux. But gastroenterologists are often stumped as to what it is and how to treat it.

Some 44% of Americans have heartburn at least once a month, and 7% have it daily, according to the for 1 last update 2020/06/07 International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders. Heartburn that frequent is the most common symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease, a diagnosis believed to be rising world-wide with obesity and advancing age. One 2004 study... Some 44% of Americans have heartburn at least once a month, and 7% have it daily, according to the International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders. Heartburn that frequent is the most common symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease, a diagnosis believed to be rising world-wide with obesity and advancing age. One 2004 study...